District of Columbia Application Forms: What you need to know

The District of Columbia Human Rights Act prohibits the use of an application form that discriminates on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, genetic information, disability, matriculation, or political affiliation (DC Code Sec. 2-1402.11). Exceptions are made for business necessities (DC Code Sec. 2-1401.03). A business necessity exception is applicable only where it can be proved that, without this exception, business could not be conducted. The Act covers all employers in the District regardless of size.

For a Limited Time receive a FREE HR Report on the "Critical HR Recordkeeping”. This exclusive special report covers hiring records, employment relationships, termination records, litigation issues, electronic information issues, tips for better recordkeeping, and a list of legal requirements. Download Now

“Matriculation” means the individual's status at the time of application or employment, such as enrolled in college, professional or vocational school, or in an adult education program.

“Personal appearance” means the outward appearance of someone such as beard, long or short hair, manner or style of dress, but is not related to the requirement of cleanliness, uniforms, or prescribed standards when uniformly applied to a class of employees. In other words, an employer is not subject to a claim of discrimination where an employee is admonished for not adhering to personal hygiene standards or a dress code.

Record retention is complex and time consuming. However, in addition to complying with various federal and state laws, keeping good, well-organized records can be very helpful in documenting and supporting an organization’s employment actions.
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This special report will discuss how you can ensure your records are in good order, and establish a record-retention policy.